Other funding options

Other funding options available to students including the following:

Starting August 6, 2024:

Apply for the StrongerBC future skills grant online using your BC Services Card Account at www.futureskillsgrant.gov.bc.ca/login

Make sure you have set up your BC Services Card Account. You will need your account to log in. The new system will check your eligibility.

Eligible programs:

Student eligibility:  

  • Must be a Canadian Citizen, Permanent Resident, or Protected Person entitled to study in Canada.  
  • Must be B.C. residents and currently live in B.C. 
  • Must be 19 years or older or have graduated high school by the start of the course/program.  
  • Must grant consent to collect and disclose personal information that is relevant to accessing the StrongerBC future skills grant to the provincial government and Douglas College.
  • Should not be receiving duplicative and/or overlapping funding to cover eligible costs (i.e. grants, loans, scholarships, or other funding that covers the same program costs as the StrongerBC Future Skills Grant) 

Eligible costs include:  

  • Tuition 
  • Mandatory Fees 
  • Program/Course Materials
  • Not eligible: Childcare, living allowances, transportation.  

Other considerations: 

  • The StrongerBC Future Skills Grant is subject to a $3,500 lifetime maximum. All eligible costs will be countered towards the $3,500 limit.

  • StrongerBC Future Skills Grant benefits may have tax implications. Students should consult with the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) for tax advice.

  • Students receiving any federal or provincial benefit, such as Employment Insurance (EI) or B.C. Employment and Assistance (BCEA) must seek approval from the appropriate government body before participating in the StrongerBC future skills grant program.

  • Students who are current WorkBC Employment Services clients must work with their employment counsellor before registering for courses.

  • Students who require additional financial supports like living supports or daycare to attend training can contact their local WorkBC Centre 6-8 weeks in advance to determine if they are eligible.

Supports students who are registered in upgrading courses or special education programs and are in need of financial assistance for fees, books, unsubsidized childcare, and transportation costs. Eligible programs/courses:

  • Career and Employment Preparation (CAEP)
  • Customer Service and Cashier Training (CSCT)
  • Fit and Ready for Skills Training (FRST)
  • Local Industry Skills Training (LIST)
  • English and Mathematics Upgrading (ENGU and MATU) 
  • English Language Learning and Acquisition (ELLA)

Adult Upgrading Grant Application Process:

Provincial Tuition Waiver Program for Former Youth in Care

  • Tuition for former youth in care will be waived for B.C. students who are between 19-26 years of age (inclusive) and are attending a B.C. public post-secondary institution who meet the eligibility criteria outlined in the application form below.

  • This program is open to students pursuing programs that lead to a certificate, diploma, or undergraduate degree. Students registering in Continuing Education courses are also eligible. Students enrolled in graduate programs or post-graduate courses are not eligible.

  • Students who wish to be considered for the waiver while studying at Douglas College must complete the Provincial Tuition Waiver Application and return it to the Enrolment Service Office at either the Coquitlam or New Westminster Campus.

Youth Educational Assistance Fund for Former Youth in Care

  • Students eligible to apply for a Provincial Tuition Waiver, may also qualify for the youth educational assistance fund. 
  • Check out the eligibility criteria for YEAF applications on the StudentAid BC website.

For more information, check out BC Government. Click here for detailed listing of bursaries and grants.